Ten (or So) Tips for Traveling with (or without) Your Husky

Siberians are naturally energetic and require ample physical activity; sedentary lifestyles do not suit them. With adequate preparation, it is possible to include your canine companion in your travel plans. Why embark on solo trips when your loyal companion is eager to accompany you?

This chapter offers valuable insights on traveling with your dog, be it on foot or by air, rail, or road. Additionally, it provides recommendations on alternative activities to engage in if you are unable to bring your Husky along. Are you currently planning a trip? Look no further as this chapter has got you covered.

Go for a Walk

Walking with your Siberian is not only a healthy physical exercise, but it also offers numerous social benefits. Regular brisk walks can promote a healthy weight, improve cardiovascular function, lower stress, and build strong muscles and bones. Additionally, walking with your Husky can be a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends. However, it is crucial to keep your Siberian attached to a leash at all times during walks or hikes. Huskies have a strong prey drive and can be easily distracted by various stimuli, such as squirrels, horse manure, piles of trash, and loud noises. To ensure the safety of your Siberian, it is highly recommended to keep them leashed or attached to a sled.

Remember

When walking your dog, it is important to be a responsible neighbor by always cleaning up after your pet. Dog waste not only creates an unsightly environment, but it can also pose health risks. It may contain various harmful bacteria and viruses such as campylobacteriosis, hookworms, parvovirus, whipworms, roundworms, threadworms, giardia, and coccidia. Failing to pick up after your dog can lead to soil contamination and water pollution, which can have negative impacts on both humans and the environment. In fact, the EPA categorizes it in the same group as oil and mine runoff. Therefore, it is crucial to always pick up after your dog to maintain a clean and safe environment for everyone.

Tip

For hikers, it may be beneficial to invest in a lightweight nylon backpack for their canine companion. This will allow the dog to carry its own food and water, which is particularly useful during warmer weather. Additionally, for those who prefer or require walking during nighttime hours, it is advised to utilize a reflective vest, collar, and leash for safety purposes. It is also important to remember to bring a flashlight.

Include Your Husky on Your Bike Rides

Once your Husky reaches one year of age, it may be suitable to include them in your bike rides. It is important to note that younger dogs should not be subjected to strenuous exercise. To ensure your dog's safety, it is recommended to invest in devices such as the Springer or Canine Cruiser, which securely attach your dog to the bike while preventing any harm. The Springer is priced at approximately $100, but please note that a harness is not included. It is crucial to avoid using a collar and instead opt for a harness when biking with your dog. When selecting a route for your bike ride, it is best to avoid concrete and pavement and instead look for a dirt bike trail. As you and your Husky become more experienced with bike rides, you may consider advancing to skijoring, which is further discussed in Chapter Ten Great Dog Activities for Your Husky (besides Sledding).

Remember

When bike riding with your dog, it is important to exercise caution. Make frequent stops and avoid going too fast or too far. Dogs may exert themselves to keep up with you, putting them at risk of heatstroke or exhaustion. As humans are tropical creatures and Siberian dogs are arctic ones, the warm spring days that humans enjoy may be too hot for Siberians to work hard. It is essential to compromise and monitor your dog’s breathing.

Travel in Your Vehicle

Many dogs enjoy car rides and following a few simple rules can make the experience enjoyable for both you and your dog.

Fastening your Husky’s seat belt

For safety, it is recommended that dogs ride in the back seat using a proper doggy seat belt and harness or a carrier. In some countries, such as Germany, seat belts for dogs are required by law. Several varieties of seat belts are available to safely restrain your dog and protect both of you. A Husky jumping into your lap while driving can be dangerous, and sudden stops or accidents can cause injury.

Barriers can also be used between the front and back seats. These are adjustable and pressure-mounted for easy installation. Some versions are made of netting, but may not be suitable for dogs that chew.

On longer trips, it is important to stop every couple of hours for exercise and elimination needs.

Remember

It is important to note that a driver’s behavior can affect their dog’s behavior. If the driver is tense or aggressive, this attitude may transfer to the dog, causing both to become anxious.

Tip

Keep your car at a cool and comfortable temperature — for the Siberian. Dogs tend to get very excited or anxious in a car, and what seems comfy for you may be unbearably hot for them. Open the window a crack and get some nice fresh air. This will help you both avoid the dreaded car trip vomit. Bring an interactive dog toy or two with you to keep your Husky entertained.

Warning

When traveling with your dog, there are a few important things to avoid:

• Do not allow your dog to stick its head out of the window while the car is moving. Although dogs may enjoy the breeze, debris and pebbles from the road can cause serious eye damage. It is safer for your dog to remain inside the car.

• Do not leave your dog unattended in the car. Even if the outside temperature is pleasant, the temperature inside a vehicle can quickly become lethal. Puppies are especially vulnerable to heat stress. Keeping the car running is not a safe solution as dogs have been known to accidentally drive cars out of parking spaces.

  If you must leave your Husky in the car, a folding plastic barrier for the windows can help circulate air. However, it is important to park in the shade and not leave your dog for more than a few minutes if the outside temperature is above 60 degrees.

Dealing with a nervous Siberian

While most dogs enjoy car rides, some may dislike or fear them due to a previous negative experience. To help your dog become more comfortable with car rides, patience is key. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Make the stationary car a friendly and familiar place for your dog. Use treats to lure your dog to the car and reward them for getting closer. This may take time, but continue until your dog is comfortable. If necessary, consult with a veterinarian for medication or consider leaving your dog at home.
2. Once your dog is comfortable near the car, start the engine but do not drive anywhere.
3. Take short trips to positive destinations such as a dog park or around the block. Consider taking short breaks and getting out of the car with your dog to show them that nothing bad will happen. Always reward your dog with calm praise.

Tip

If your dog experiences car sickness, ginger snaps may help alleviate symptoms. It is recommended to withhold food for 6 hours before the trip, but water intake should not be limited.

Warning

While dogs may enjoy riding in the back of pickup trucks, it is not a safe mode of transportation. Dogs may jump or be thrown from the truck, resulting in severe injury or death. In fact, over 100,000 dogs die each year from being transported in the back of a pickup truck. Sudden stops or swerves can also cause a dog to become a projectile and be thrown onto the highway, potentially being hit by oncoming traffic.

If it is necessary for your Husky to ride in the back of a truck for a short distance, it is recommended to place them in a secured crate to prevent them from being thrown out. However, it is important to note that grit, dirt, and blowing dust can still be hazardous to your dog’s eyes and a wire crate may not provide sufficient protection.

Additionally, truck beds can become dangerously hot in the summer, even when stationary. The metal floor can quickly reach high temperatures and cause heat distress in your Husky, potentially leading to death within minutes.

Remember

Dogs may pant and drool excessively when excited, increasing their risk of dehydration. To prevent this, bring a canteen with an attached plastic dish for water. Many companies offer specialized travel containers for food and water, some of which are soft-sided for easy handling and storage. One such product is the Pet Galley, which holds 1 gallon of water and 7 cups of food. Freezing the water beforehand can help keep it cool for your pet.

Bringing your own water is particularly important for puppies as they are sensitive to changes in water and may develop diarrhea from drinking unfamiliar water. This can be difficult to manage during a long car ride.

Find a Pet-Friendly Hotel

According to a survey by the American Animal Hospital Association, 41% of pet owners take their pets on vacation at least sometimes. Some hotels allow pets, but it is important to inquire beforehand and expect to pay a deposit. Hotels may have strict policies regarding damage caused by pets. For tips on pet-friendly travel, visit www.petfriendlytravel.com.

It is important to note that even well-behaved dogs may behave differently in unfamiliar environments and may chew on hotel furnishings. Many hotels require that pets be crated at all times and not left alone in the room.

Remember

It is important for dogs to make a positive impression on hotel management and staff as their behavior can influence future decisions regarding pet policies. Be sure to clean up after your dog and ensure that they are well-behaved. The number of hotels accepting dogs has decreased by 25% in recent years. If your dog is not well-behaved, it may be best to leave them at home.

Take Public Transportation

Some municipalities allow non-service dogs, such as Siberians, to ride on buses. Requirements may vary and include leash or crate confinement, good behavior, size restrictions, muzzling, or payment of a fare. Some cities may limit the number of dogs allowed on a bus or car. It is important to check the policies of the city you are visiting before bringing your dog on public transportation.

Fly with Your Husky: Yes or No?

Unless in cases of dire emergency, I strongly suggest you don’t fly with your Husky. Huskies are too big to go in the cabin with you and throwing them on board as baggage or freight is even worse. You may think your Husky is a family member, but airlines don’t. To them, your Husky is just baggage. Air travel is extremely stressful for dogs (the changing air pressure is terrifying for most of them). Imagine the terror of a dog locked in a dark crate if the plane encounters turbulence.

Flying is also downright dangerous. Dozens of dogs die every year flying. Planes that have been delayed can get stuck on blazing hot tarmac with temperatures inside the baggage hold escalating dangerously. Dogs sometimes get sent to the wrong airport. To avoid any catastrophe, keep your dog at home in loving hands with relatives or friends or in a good boarding kennel.

If you absolutely have no other option and must fly your dog, do your homework and start researching airlines and policies (which seem to change from day to day). You must purchase the approved pet carrier and get the proper veterinary paperwork. (Many airlines and state health officials require health certificates issued by a licensed veterinarian within ten days of the scheduled flight, so have your pet checked out within that time.) Tip: Also make sure to get liability insurance if the worst does happen.

Remember

Furthermore, it is important to note that U.S. territories and many foreign countries have specific quarantine and health regulations for animals. It is recommended to consult with a travel agent, airline representative, or the appropriate consulate to obtain detailed information about the requirements for your destination. Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned before they are permitted to fly. It is also not advisable to transport elderly animals or females in heat.

When planning air travel with your Husky, it is advisable to schedule a direct, nonstop flight to minimize stress and reduce the risk of your dog being lost. Flights during less busy times are preferable. It is not recommended to sedate your dog before the flight as tranquilizers can interfere with their temperature regulation. Consult with your veterinarian for advice on this matter.

Your dog must be transported in an airline-approved container with all necessary instructions attached. The container must be large enough for your dog to sit, lie down, stand, and turn around comfortably. The floor of the container must be solid and covered with absorbent material or litter. Pegboard flooring is not permitted. Many airlines require that wheels on the container be removed or immobilized prior to the flight. Adequate ventilation is also a requirement for kennels.

Tip

When preparing your Husky for air travel, it is recommended to take the following steps to ensure their comfort and safety:

• Place one of your dog’s favorite toys in the kennel with them. Items with your scent can provide comfort and reassurance.
• Ensure that your dog is wearing a flat, buckle collar with identification tags securely attached. Choke chains should not be used. The tags should include your name and a phone number where you or a designated contact can be reached during the flight. Any necessary food, water, or medical information should also be provided. Food and water dishes must be securely attached to the kennel. Ideally, your dog should be able to hold their bladder for the duration of the flight.
• Clearly label the crate with the words “live animal” and include arrows or the words “this end up” to ensure that your pet is transported in the correct orientation. Directions such as “keep away from hot sun and extreme cold” should also be included. The crate should be secured firmly but not locked, in case someone needs to access your dog in an emergency.

Tip

It is recommended to bring a current photo of your pet when traveling in case they become lost. Having a photo can greatly assist in locating your dog, as simply describing them as a “Siberian Husky” may not provide a clear enough image for most people to identify them. For example, there have been instances where dogs of one breed have been mistaken for another breed.

If you are considering bringing your dog on a plane as an emotional support animal, it is important to note that the U.S. Department of Transportation may soon revise its rules for service and support animals on planes. The proposed changes may allow airlines to ban emotional support animals and only permit specially trained service animals on board. Passengers may be required to complete a form attesting that their dog is trained to perform a specific task for someone with a disability and provide proof of the dog’s temperament and manners.

It is not advisable to misrepresent your pet Siberian Husky as a service dog by using a fake service dog jacket or other means. This behavior is not only unethical but also does a disservice to individuals with genuine disabilities who rely on trained service animals.

Find a Reputable Pet-Sitter

If your Husky is unable to accompany you on your travels, it may be preferable to arrange for a pet-sitter rather than placing them in a kennel. Many animals find the experience of being transported to a boarding facility stressful, even if the facility offers luxury amenities such as heated pools and exercise classes.

When selecting a pet-sitter, it is important to choose someone who is knowledgeable about animals and has good references. Fees should be discussed in advance and the pet-sitter should meet with your Husky before the scheduled sitting period. If either your dog or the pet-sitter has a negative reaction to the meeting, it may be advisable to consider a different sitter.

Tip

Before departing on your trip, it is important to ensure that your pet-sitter has all the necessary information about your Husky’s food and medication requirements, as well as your itinerary. This will enable the pet-sitter to provide the best possible care for your dog in your absence.

Locate a Good Boarding Kennel

If you prefer to place your Husky in a kennel while you are away, it is recommended to seek recommendations from your veterinarian, groomer, or friends. Many veterinarians and groomers operate their own boarding facilities. Crate training your dog at home can help them adjust more easily to the confinement that may be necessary at a kennel. Many modern kennels offer a range of amenities and services such as swimming, massage therapy, dog walking, grooming, exercise and rest schedules, and special meal preparations. These facilities can provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for your dog during their stay.

Tip

Before boarding your Husky at a kennel, it is advisable to inspect the facility and ask any questions you may have. Provide the kennel management with your itinerary and contact information, as well as the phone number of your veterinarian and a complete health record for your dog. It is also recommended to provide a clear photo of your dog in case they become lost while you are away. Additionally, leave the name and contact information of a local person who can pick up your dog in the event that you are unable to do so.

Tip

Before leaving your Husky at a kennel, it is recommended to visit the facility and assess its suitability. Look for and ask about the following:

• Cleanliness: Check for dirty walls, floors, and soiled bedding as these can be warning signs. Ask about the facility’s cleaning regimen and ensure that the management is knowledgeable about maintaining a hygienic environment.
• Temperature control: Ensure that the kennel is heated and cooled according to the season. The ambient air should feel comfortable when you enter the facility.
• Veterinary care: Most boarding kennels have an arrangement with a local veterinarian. Ask about this and find out what procedures are in place if your dog becomes ill while in their care. Provide information about your own veterinarian.
• Veterinary technicians: Larger kennels may employ veterinary technicians to monitor the wellbeing of their animals and administer medications or first aid if necessary.
• Indoor and outdoor runs: Siberian Huskies enjoy being outside, but should have access to a comfortable indoor area during hot or inclement weather.
• Security: Ensure that the kennel is secure, particularly if your Husky has a tendency to escape. Fences should be at least eight feet high.
• Ventilation: The indoor area should be well ventilated and not feel stuffy or oppressive.
• Bedding: Ask about the type of bedding provided and whether you are permitted to bring your dog’s own bed if desired.
• Separation of animals: Good kennels do not allow nose-to-nose contact between animals to prevent the spread of disease and fence fighting.
• Quarantine facilities: Ensure that the kennel has adequate quarantine facilities in case a boarded dog develops symptoms of illness.